MSI has just launched its latest ultrawide 1500R VA panel monitors under the Modern MD342CQP series, catering to users looking for a premium yet affordable 34-inch display. The monitor, available in sleek black and white variants, boasts an impressive 3,440 x 1,440 resolution and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Early listings reveal a competitive price tag of around $350, making it an attractive option for professionals, gamers, and tech enthusiasts alike.
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According to Tom’s Hardware, the Modern MD342CQP comes equipped with numerous features that set it apart in this price range, including a built-in KVM switch and a USB Type-C interface capable of delivering 98W of power. However, this monitor is not available on Amazon yet, though retailers like ProVantage and PC-Canada have started listing it for sale. The U.S. price stands at $346.86, while PC-Canada has it priced at CA$376.99, though it remains out of stock at the moment.
Modern MD342CQP Cutting-edge Features
The Modern MD342CQP offers a 34-inch diagonal display with a curved 1500R VA panel. It provides vivid and crisp visuals, thanks to its 10-bit color depth (8-bit + FRC), which supports 1.07 billion colors. The monitor also achieves a contrast ratio of 3500:1 and covers an impressive color gamut with 92% Adobe RGB, 95% DCI-P3, and 119% sRGB, ensuring rich and accurate color reproduction across various applications.
While the monitor boasts a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, it’s important to note that this is only achievable through the DisplayPort or Type-C interface. Both HDMI 2.0b ports are limited to a maximum refresh rate of 100Hz. Although this may be a drawback for gamers seeking ultra-high refresh rates, the MD342CQP is designed with broader usability in mind, offering Picture-in-Picture (PiP) and Picture-by-Picture (PbP) modes, making it ideal for multi-tasking or security monitoring setups.
Modern MD342CQP Design & Practicality
Available in both black (MD342CQP) and white (MD342CQPW), the monitor’s design offers a premium aesthetic that fits both office and home environments. MSI has incorporated a fully adjustable stand that allows for tilt, swivel, and height adjustments, providing users with flexibility and comfort. However, at 300 nits, the brightness level may not be ideal for brightly lit environments.
One of the standout features of this monitor is its 98W USB Type-C Power Delivery, which is perfect for users looking to charge high-powered devices, such as laptops, directly through the monitor. Additionally, the KVM switch allows seamless control of multiple devices, further enhancing productivity.
Competitive Landscape
When compared to other similar products on the market, like the Gigabyte GS34WQC or Xiaomi’s G34WQi, which offer higher refresh rates of up to 180Hz, MSI’s MD342CQP sets itself apart with practical features like the KVM switch and robust USB outputs. The inclusion of built-in speakers (2 x 3W) also adds an extra layer of convenience for casual users. However, it might not fully appeal to competitive gamers who prioritize refresh rates over multitasking features. At this price range, MSI has effectively created a monitor that balances functionality, price, and features. The market for ultrawide displays has expanded rapidly, but the MD342CQP is targeted more towards office users, multitaskers, and content creators who benefit from the 21:9 aspect ratio and the immersive 1500R curve.